News

People are being encouraged to ‘Make a Difference’ where they live with a new career working for their local council, ahead of the launch of a national recruitment campaign.

More than four out of five councils expect demand for welfare support to increase over winter, just as vital dedicated funding for vulnerable households is due to run out, councils warn.

Alastair Campbell, currently Interim Director of Communications and Engagement at Southwark Council, has been appointed as Interim Director of Communications and will join the LGA from 2 September for six months.

“Limited resources and a £16.3 billion local roads repair backlog means councils have had to prioritise road repairs according to local circumstances."

“It is with relief that we have not so far seen a repeat of the extremist far-right violence, racism and thuggish behaviour that has brought fear and distress to so many people and blighted communities up and down the country.

“Councils want to turn the tide of rising homelessness. A genuine cross-departmental approach to tackling this crisis, as part of a long-term government strategy, is key with councils given the powers and resources needed to address the national shortage of affordable housing.”

Sally Burlington, Director of Policy and Deputy Chief Executive, will leave the Local Government Association (LGA) later this year.

Evaluations and feedback from the sector show that LGA programmes continue to play a key role in supporting councils to improve, achieve local ambitions, and provide services communities rely on.

Cllr Louise Gittins, Chair of the Local Government Association said: “The unrest and violence we have seen around the country has been deplorable. As always, councils are striving to unite communities and not divide them and are leading local responses to protect communities from those who seek to sow division. “While it has been encouraging to see the community spirit and response in the wake of these awful incidents, with residents and businesses helping to clean up areas and repair damage, we know that it will take much longer to resolve community tensions. "The LGA is supporting councils

The infographics reveal that, while local government is the largest single biggest funder of culture, this investment remains under threat due to the multitude of funding steams as well as the system for funding bids.